"The Zone Trial: Tempe's Clearing of Homeless Camps Sends Ripples through Phoenix"
The clearing of homeless encampments in Tempe, Arizona has led to a ripple effect, with many unhoused individuals being displaced and moving to neighboring municipalities like Phoenix. While the move may satisfy housed residents, it creates new problems, scattering communities and making it harder for nonprofit outreach workers to deliver services. The lack of adequate shelter options and the enforcement of laws against urban camping exacerbate the issue, perpetuating homelessness rather than solving it. Encampment sweeps have health and legal consequences, and research shows they do not effectively address homelessness. The situation highlights the need for better coordination and comprehensive solutions to address the growing homelessness crisis in the region.